Conversations

Patrick Johnson, the first Australian to run 100 meters in under 10 seconds, shares his inspirational journey from a boy on a fishing trawler to an elite sprinter. He reflects on the profound lessons learned from his father, the unique challenges of his upbringing, and the unexpected spark that ignited his passion for running. Johnson recounts breaking barriers in sprinting, emphasizing the intersection of identity, culture, and resilience in athletics, while highlighting the mental preparation essential for success.

Australian sports commentator Bruce McAvaney shares his inspiring journey from a public servant to a legendary race caller. He reflects on his childhood dreams, family memories, and the pivotal moment that led him to pursue a career in sports commentary. Bruce's passion for horse racing, broadcasting key moments in the Olympics, and his experience at the Women's World Cup showcase his unwavering dedication to the world of sports.

Writer Louise Kennedy shares her upbringing during The Troubles in Belfast, transition from chef to novelist, struggles of kitchen mishaps, and reflections on writing, health, and Belfast's changing political climate.

Former AFL player turned commentator and children's book author Tony Armstrong discusses overcoming failure, transitioning careers, and finding fulfillment in writing George the Wizard. He reflects on his journey from football to commentary, challenges faced, and unexpected nominations for a Gold Logie.

Lea Firth shares her family's exile story from West Papua to Australia, their return journey, and the bittersweet homecoming. The podcast explores the musical legacies of Auguste Roem Warappen and the blend of metal, soul, and island music. It delves into family roots, political resistance, cultural identity, first haircut tradition, missing out on family dynamics, standing up against bullying, emotional journey of loss, and legacy building through multilingual music.

Writer Lily Brett shares her personal journey of visiting Auschwitz, her parents' survival in the death camp, and her emotional connection to the place. She reflects on her novel 'Too Many Men', the movie adaptation, Lena Dunham's influence, growing up in a displaced persons camp, learning German, and the impact of family history on identity.

I Was Actually There is a new ABC podcast featuring gripping stories told by people who witnessed history first-hand. Hear what it was like to be a police sniper tasked with handling the gunman at the Port Arthur massacre; how it felt to be a teenager seeing The Beatles during their record-breaking 1964 Adelaide visit; and how one man survived being trapped 1km underground for 14 days, after the Beaconsfield mine collapse.Follow the I Was Actually There podcast on ABC listen.In this episode, Rebekah Giles and her boyfriend were enjoying a last-minute Christmas holiday in Thailand when the deadliest tsunami in recorded history struck. Rebekah recounts her remarkable survival, from the moment a torrent of water blew apart her beachfront hut on Phi Phi Island.

Monte Punshon was 103 years old when she was crowned the world's oldest lesbian, but that wasn't how she summed up her extraordinary life. Historian Tessa Morris-Suzuki charts Monte's adventures through underground bars and secret clubs

Winnie Dunn shares her empowering journey from western Sydney to Tonga, embracing her cultural identity through writing. She explores family heritage, Tongan traditions, and cultural discoveries, finding strength in familial relationships and self-discovery. Uncovering a diary from her birth mother sparks a passion for writing and deeper connections to her roots.

Blind journalist Nas Campanella shares her inspiring journey from radio to TV, breaking barriers, overcoming challenges, and embracing her identity. She discusses family traditions, memory strategies, journalism career, advocacy for the disabled community, and balancing motherhood with her work.